HEALA APPOINTS NEW PROGRAMMES MANAGER

23 April 2019 – Lawrence Mbalati has been appointed the new head of the Healthy Living Alliance (HEALA), effective 15 April 2019.

In his new role, Lawrence will develop and drive the strategy for a robust campaign seeking to achieve policy reform in obesity and NCD-related issues in South Africa.

Lawrence has over 14 years’ experience in community and health systems strengthening, community mobilization, policy advocacy, lobbying, human rights and project management.
His illustrious career started at the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), pioneering access to treatment in Limpopo and other South African provinces during the dark years of AIDS denial.
He later joined the AIDS and Rights Alliance for Southern Africa (ARASA) to promote respect for and the protection of rights to bodily autonomy and integrity for all in order to reduce inequality, especially gender inequality and promote health, dignity and wellbeing in Southern and East Africa. He also worked in the Public Health, Humanitarian and Community Technical support space with the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS), Society for Family Health (SFH) and Beyond Zero.

Lawrence holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Science and an Advance Certificate in Project Management, both from the University of South Africa (UNISA).
“I am thrilled to join this vibrant organisation and hard-working team. I am looking forward to significantly contributing to the organisational vision, advocacy and campaigns for turning the tide against obesity and NCDs,” said Mbalati.

He takes over from former HEALA Executive Director, Sibongile Nkosi, who was at the helm of the organisation for a year.
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About HEALA

HEALA is an advocacy group aimed at improving the health of South Africans and creating a healthier food environment for all by empowering South Africans to make healthier food and lifestyle choices to prevent non-communicable diseases